December 14th, 2009
Hays County United Way reaches out for funding

STAFF REPORT

The United Way of Hays County is reaching out to the community for help in reaching its go for the 2009-2001 campaign ending Dec. 31.

“We are not where we need to be, and time is running out,” said United Way Executive Director Michelle Harper. “We are so grateful to the people and businesses who have given so far – they are being as generous as they can. Now we are appealing to those who haven’t given yet to make a contribution before the end of the year.”

The campaign has raised $185,000 to date, but the goal for 2009 is $300,000. Harper said she hopes an additional $70,000 will come from efforts currently underway in workplaces throughout the country and from national corporate campaigns that are not processed locally. Even if those projections are realized, though, the local United Way will only boost the campaign to 85 percent of its goal, leaving it with a shortfall of around $50,000.

Kim Porterfield, United Way chair and longtime board member said, “What that means to our community is that help may not be available at a time when help is needed the most.”

All the funds raised by the United Way of Hays County remain in the local community, where they provide grants to critical human service agencies delivered by its 23 member agencies. The United Way will see a drastic reduction in its ability to provide for those grants if the campaign falls short.

Residents and businesses may send donations directly to the United Way of Hays County, PO Box 1728, San Marcos, TX, 78667. Donations can also be made online at www.unitedwayhaysco.org. All donations are tax deductible.

Said Porterfield, “Give because it makes you feel good. Do it in the spirit of the holiday season, or because you itemize your tax deductions, or for whatever other reason. Just give. Please.”